There's a school of thought that preaches amateurs should not perform in a professional theatre. I don't agree.

In my view, the only criterion is the audience receives value for money. And this is just what Brighton and Hove Operatic Society has been giving for 125 years.

Barry Manilow's Copacabana is inspired by his song of the same name and is a captivating tale of romance set amid the New York nightclub scene in 1947.

The show is a phantasmagoria of whirling girls, handsome men and gorgeous costumes.

Stephen is a young musician struggling to write a musical and the whole show is his dream of Lola (Dina Georgiou in her first leading role), a girl from Tulsa, Oklahoma, who comes to New York to audition for a job as a showgirl at the Copacabana club.

There she meets and falls in love with Tony (Jamie Collins), a young songwriter. As usual, the course of true love does not run smoothly because the villainous Rico (delightfully played by Stephen Emery) spirits Lola away to his nightclub in Havana, intending she should replace his ageing girlfriend, Conchita (Sharon Starr in a powerful performance).

This is a highly enjoyable production which is a feast for both the eye and the ear. The complex score is expertly handled by a skilled cast and praise must go to the musical director, Caryl Vine, although, because of illness, her place on the conductor's podium had to be taken by Andy Sutton.

Judi Campbell's direction was responsible for a tight and slick production which contained many amusing bits of "business".

She is certainly a worthy successor to Mavis Ward who, for many years, produced the society's shows.

Jacquie Storey expertly handled the choreography.

Among the voices, I particularly liked the rich baritone of Stephen Emery and the strong singing of Sharon Starr.

Jamie Collins was an excellent Tony but needs to eliminate a rough edge to his voice. Dina Georgiou gives a credible performance.

She has a strong voice with much potential. Particular praise must go to Sarah Cohen as Gladys, whose New York accent was convincing and whose sense of comedy had the audience in stitches.

If you feel in need of cheering up, or even if you don't, see this show.

For tickets, call 01273 328488.

Review by Peter Bailey, features@theargus.co.uk